THE BOOK

Vermouth: The Revival of the Spirit That Created America’s Cocktail Culture

ADAM FORD

You may think of vermouth as an accessory to classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Martini—that is, if you think about it at all. But for almost a century, vermouth was actually the primary ingredient of these two drinks, as well as a prized aperitif in its own right. And today, after decades of obscurity, vermouth is finally making a comeback. “It's something of a surprise to see how quickly vermouth's fortunes have changed,” says Paul Clarke, executive editor of Imbibe magazine, and author of The Cocktail Chronicles. “But today's bartenders and discerning drinkers are thirstier for vermouth than Adam Ford, one of the first champions of vermouth’s modern resurgence, presents the ultimate history of this storied beverage and guide to its modern resurgence. “Vermouth, the drink of the late 1800s is back again as the “it” spirit of today, and it seems like tomorrow,” says Ford. “With so many new craft vermouth producers coming on the scene, vermouth's place as a primary ingredient in cocktails and a stand alone drink is unquestionably here to stay.”

Coming June 2015, Vermouth is one part history and one part recipe book—a loving homage to the spirit that first elevated the American cocktail. Amy Zavatto, author of Architecture of the Cocktail, says, “"Adam Ford has quickly become one of the most recognizable names and leading expert on vermouth's storied history, and perhaps America’s most passionate speaker on its significance both historical and in today’s Mixologists, history buffs, and casual sippers, alike, will appreciate the blend of fact and myth that surrounds this ancient beverage. Discover the colorful characters who first brought vermouth to American shores. Channel your inner bartender as you recreate classic drinks like the original Manhattan and try innovative new vermouth-forward recipes—over 40 in all.

Vermouth: The Revival of the Spirit That Created America’s Cocktail Culture